23 July 2026

By Daniel Perret

Ski tour Salistock 1896 m

The Salistock is an ideal ski tour for getting started with ski touring. Thanks to the Rugisbalm cable car, the initial vertical metres are easily conquered before the route leads through gentle slopes and wide terrain to the panoramic summit.

The tour is technically easy, but offers a surprisingly beautiful view of Engelberg, the Titlis and the surrounding peaks. If there is enough snow, you can ski down the new forest track as far as Rugisbalm or Grafenort.


Tour information

Region: Engelberg, Grafenort
Category: Ski Touring
Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆☆ (2/6)
Season: December – March
Ascent: 480 hm
Departure: 1018 hm
Start Grafenort (878 m above sea level) or Rugisbalm
Summit Salistock (1,966 m above sea level)
Exposition: East / North
Highlights: Perfect introductory ski tour, short ascent time, panoramic summit and long descent down to Grafenort.


Route description

From Grafenort you can reach Rugisbalm using the Rugisbalm cable car or on foot. The route then leads via the Lutersee and broad slopes at a pleasant gradient to the Salistock.

Shortly before the summit the terrain becomes somewhat steeper, but remains technically straightforward. The descent is via the ascent route. If there is sufficient snow cover, it is possible to ski down to Rugisbalm or further to Grafenort.

Route map of the ski tour to the Widderfeldstock (2,357 m), showing the ascent and descent routes from Grafenort.

Highlights

  • Ideal ski tour for beginners
  • Short and straightforward ascent
  • Beautiful view of Titlis and Engelberg
  • Long valley run with good snow conditions
  • Easily combined with other tours in the Rugisbalm area

Requirements

The tour is ideally suited for beginners and leisurely ski tourers.

You should:

  • staying safe on ski tours
  • mastering the first hairpin bends
  • have experience with avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe
  • have a normal baseline level of fitness

Hazards

The tour runs mostly through easy terrain. Nevertheless, the avalanche situation, weather and snow conditions must be taken into account at all times. The summit slope can be more challenging in hard conditions.


Out with a mountain guide

The Salistock is perfect for getting started with ski touring or as a first tour on touring skis. As a local mountain guide, I will teach you the basics of ascent technique, track setting, kick turns and avalanche assessment.

Depending on conditions, the tour can be ideally combined with other peaks or descent variants.


FAQ

Is the Salistock suitable for beginners?

Yes. The Salistock is one of the easiest and finest beginner ski tours around Engelberg.

Is the Rugisbalm cable car worth it?

Yes. With the train you save a few metres in altitude and can enjoy the tour in a relaxed way. The journey must be booked in advance by phone. Cash only!

Can it be driven as far as Grafenort?

Yes. With enough snow, it is possible to ski down via the forest track to Grafenort.

When are the best conditions?

The tour is mostly in good condition between December and March. After fresh snow, it often offers excellent powder snow conditions.


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